The final round of fixtures has concluded, the champagne has been sprayed, and Surrey have been crowned 2024 County Championship winners. But for the true connoisseur of the domestic game, the debate is only just beginning. With the dust settled on another enthralling season of red-ball cricket, it's time for the most cherished of post-season traditions: picking your Team of the Season.
This isn't about who has the biggest reputation or the most international caps; it's about who delivered consistently, who turned matches, and who embodied the grit and skill of the County Championship. So, grab your virtual selection notepad. We're going to break down the standout performers across batting, bowling, and wicketkeeping to help you build your ultimate XI for 2024.
The Run Machines: Top-Order Batters
The foundation of any great team is a top order that can see off the new ball and pile on the runs. This season offered a fascinating mix of established stars and breakout talents. At the very top, few could argue with the credentials of Keaton Jennings (Lancashire). The left-hander was a run-scoring behemoth, amassing 1,234 runs at an average of 72.58, including four centuries. His ability to bat for long periods was the bedrock of Lancashire's campaign. Alongside him, a strong case can be made for Alex Lees (Durham), whose 1,187 runs were crucial in Durham's title challenge, proving his England days may not be behind him.
At number three, the spot almost picks itself. Middlesex's Leus du Plooy, in his first season with the club, was simply sublime. He finished as the division's leading run-scorer with a staggering 1,277 runs at an astronomical average of 106.41. His technique and hunger for big scores made him a nightmare for every bowling attack. As one commentator noted after another mammoth innings, "Du Plooy isn't just scoring runs; he's deconstructing bowling attacks with serene authority."
The Engine Room: Middle-Order Maestros
This is where you need your versatile players – those who can counter-attack or dig in, depending on the situation. The season was rich with candidates. James Rew (Somerset) continued his ascent with another 1,000-run season, showcasing a maturity beyond his years. For pure match-winning impetus, however, Jamie Smith (Surrey) was irresistible. His 876 runs, including a brilliant 155 against Kent, were compiled with a flair that screams international class and was instrumental in Surrey's success.
The all-rounder slots are always hotly contested. Jordan Cox (Essex) made a spectacular impact after his move from Kent, contributing heavily with both bat and his brilliant wicketkeeping. But for the pure all-round package, two names stand tall:
- Liam Dawson (Hampshire): 49 wickets and 655 runs. The model of consistency and a proven match-winner.
- Jordan Clark (Surrey): 44 wickets and 443 runs. Provided vital, aggressive contributions with bat and ball all season long.
Clark’s value was summed up by his captain, Rory Burns, after a key victory: "When the game is in the balance, you want Jordy involved. He has that knack of making something happen, whether it's a quickfire fifty or a crucial wicket partnership." Fitting both Dawson and Clark into your side would give it a formidable lower-middle order.
The Wicketkeeper Conundrum
This might be the toughest selection of all. Do you prioritise the batsman-keeper or the pure gloveman? The standout with the gloves was arguably Ollie Robinson (Durham), whose 52 dismissals (50 catches, 2 stumpings) were a division high and his work behind the stumps was exemplary. However, Jordan Cox (Essex) and John Simpson (Middlesex) both had exceptional seasons, with Cox's explosive batting and Simpson's veteran savvy making compelling cases.
The Attack: Seam and Spin
The Pace Battery
England hopefuls and seasoned pros alike dominated the wicket-taking charts. Leading the way was the irrepressible Sam Cook (Essex), whose mastery of seam and swing brought him 68 wickets. He was ably supported by the veteran Jamie Porter (52 wickets), forming the most prolific opening partnership in the country. For sheer pace and hostility, Josh Tongue (Nottinghamshire), now back from injury, and Matthew Potts (Durham) were relentless, each taking over 40 wickets.
A special mention must go to Migael Pretorius (Worcestershire), whose 57 wickets were a beacon of hope in a difficult season for his side. His tireless effort and skill with the ball were a testament to his character. The depth of fast-bowling talent means leaving out someone like Surrey's Dan Worrall (51 wickets) feels almost criminal.
The Spin King
In a seam-dominated landscape, a quality spinner is worth his weight in gold. While Liam Dawson qualifies as an all-rounder, the specialist role has a clear frontrunner: Simon Harmer (Essex). The off-spinner was, as ever, a magician, claiming 59 wickets and controlling the game whenever he had the ball. His duel with batters is a core part of the Championship spectacle. On drier surfaces, Mason Crane (Hampshire) also impressed with his leg-spin, taking 45 wickets.
The Captaincy Question
Who leads this team of stars? The obvious candidate is the man who just skippered his side to the title, Rory Burns of Surrey. His tactical acumen and leading-from-the-front attitude (he also scored 878 runs) are proven commodities. Alternatively, the experience and calm authority of a leader like Lewis Gregory (Somerset) or the innovative captaincy of Scott Borthwick (Durham) could be compelling choices.
Constructing Your XI: A Template
There is no single right answer, but here is a balanced example to get you thinking. This side has a solid top order, explosive middle-order options, a world-class keeper, and a varied, potent attack:
- Keaton Jennings (Lancashire) - LHB
- Alex Lees (Durham) - LHB
- Leus du Plooy (Middlesex) - LHB
- James Rew (Somerset) - LHB, WK
- Jamie Smith (Surrey) - RHB
- Liam Dawson (Hampshire) - LHB, SLA
- Jordan Clark (Surrey) - RHB, RFM
- Simon Harmer (Essex) - RHB, RAO
- Sam Cook (Essex) - RHB, RFM
- Matthew Potts (Durham) - RHB, RFM
- Jamie Porter (Essex) - RHB, RMF
This leaves out phenomenal players like Jordan Cox, Josh Tongue, and Ollie Robinson, which just goes to show the incredible depth of performance this season. You might prefer a specialist keeper like Robinson, allowing you to slot Cox in as a pure batter. Perhaps you want the express pace of Tongue over the relentless accuracy of Porter. The beauty is in the debate.
Conclusion: Your Team, Your Rules
The 2024 County Championship has been a thrilling advertisement for the red-ball game, filled with incredible individual performances. From the run-gluttony of Jennings and du Plooy to the wicket-taking feats of Cook and Harmer, selectors are spoiled for choice. The final decision rests with you. So, analyse the averages, consider the conditions, and most importantly, pick the players who made you stop and watch. As the great John Arlott once said, "The fascination of cricket is that it is a team game relying entirely on individual performance."
Now it's your turn. Who makes your 2024 County Championship Team of the Season? The debate is officially open.